Modular connector and method

ABSTRACT

A connector connects auxiliary flow lines—and, in some configurations, electrical lines—that extend through and terminate at or near opposing ends of two respective components of a downhole tool string. The connector comprises a body assembly for fluidly-connecting the auxiliary flow lines and electrically-connecting the electrical lines of the respective two components, and an assembly for adjusting the length of the body assembly. In particular embodiments, the two components are discrete modules of a unitary tool, or alternatively, are distinct tools. Additionally, the connector may include a mechanism for closing the auxiliary flow lines of one or both components upon disconnection of the fluid connection between the two components.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a divisional application of co-pending U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/160,240 filed Jun. 15, 2005, the content of which is incorporated herein by reference for all purposes.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to connections for transferring auxiliary fluids and electronic signals/power between components, such as tools or modules within a tool, in a downhole tool string.

2. Background of the Related Art

Wellbores (also known as boreholes) are drilled for hydrocarbon prospecting and production. It is often desirable to perform various evaluations of the formations penetrated by a wellbore during drilling operations, such as during periods when actual drilling has temporarily stopped. In some cases, the drill string may be provided with one or more drilling tools to test and/or sample the surrounding formation. In other cases, the drill string may be removed from the wellbore, in a sequence called a “trip,” and a wireline tool may be deployed into the wellbore to test and/or sample the formation. The samples or tests performed by such downhole tools may be used, for example, to locate valuable hydrocarbon-producing formations and manage the production of hydrocarbons therefrom.

Such drilling tools and wireline tools, as well as other wellbore tools conveyed on coiled tubing, drill pipe, casing or other conveyers, are also referred to herein simply as “downhole tools” Such downhole tools may themselves include a plurality of integrated modules, each for performing a separate function, and a downhole tool may be employed alone or in combination with other downhole tools in a downhole tool string.

More particularly, formation evaluation often requires that fluid from the formation be drawn into a downhole tool (or module thereof) for testing in situ and/or sampling. Various devices, such as probes and/or packers, are extended from the downhole tool to isolate a region of the wellbore wall, and thereby establish fluid communication with the formation surrounding the wellbore. Fluid may then be drawn into the downhole tool using the probe and/or packer.

The collection of such formation fluid samples while drilling is ideally performed with an integrated sampling/pressure tool that contains several modules each for performing various functions such as electrical power supply, hydraulic power supply, fluid sampling (e.g., probe or dual packer), fluid analysis, and sample collection (e.g., tanks). Such modules are depicted, for example, in U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,860,581 and 4,936,139. Accordingly, a downhole fluid, such as formation fluid, is typically drawn into the downhole tool for testing and/or sampling. This and other types of downhole fluid (other than drilling mud pumped through a drill string) are referred to hereinafter as “auxiliary fluid” This auxiliary fluid may be a sampled formation fluid, or specialty fluids (e.g., workover fluids) for injection into a subsurface formation. The auxiliary fluid typically has utility in a downhole operation, other than merely lubricating a drill bit and/or carrying away bit cuttings to the surface. This auxiliary fluid may be transferred between modules of an integrated tool such a sampling tool, and/or between tools interconnected in a tool string. Moreover, electrical power and/or electronic signals (e.g., for data transmission) may also be transferred between modules of such tools. A challenge is therefore to maintain a workable tool length (e.g., 30 feet) while performing the necessary fluid and electrical transfers between modules of the tool.

It will be further appreciated that several other applications will require the communication of fluid and electrical signals between sequentially-positioned modules or tools of downhole tool strings—in both wireline and “while drilling” operations. The “while drilling” operations are typically characterized as part of the measurement-while-drilling (MWD) and/or logging-while-drilling (LWD) operations, in which the communication of electricity (both power and signals) across connected tools or integrated tool modules is required. Various devices have been developed to conduct such while drilling operations, such as the devices disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,242,020, issued to Cobern; 5,803,186, issued to Berger et al.; 6,026,915, issued to Smith et al.; 6,047,239, issued to Berger et al.; 6,157,893, issued to Berger et al.; 6,179,066, issued to Nasr et al.; and 6,230,557, issued to Ciglenec et al. These patents disclose various downhole tools and methods for collecting data, and in some cases fluid samples, from a subsurface formation.

Despite advances in sampling and testing capabilities in downhole tools, existing systems—particularly “while drilling” systems—are often limited to solutions for transferring electrical signals across tools or tool modules. Particular solutions include the various ring-type connectors at the joints of connected tubular members, such as “wired drill pipe” (WDP), as described in U.S. Pat. No. 6,641,434 assigned to Schlumberger, among others. Such WDP connectors are not known to provide for the transfer of electrical signals between the connected tubular members.

Connectors have also been provided for passing fluid through downhole wireline tools. Examples of such connectors are shown in U.S. Pat. No. 5,577,925, assigned to Halliburton and U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/721,026. However, no known connectors are disclosed for connecting auxiliary flowlines that extend through and terminate at or near opposing ends of connected wellbore tubulars, or for facilitating a connection between connected components. Moreover, known connectors or connector systems have not been faced with the additional challenges of drilling tools which involve drill collar, drilling mud, space limitation and harsh drilling issues.

A need therefore exists for a connector that is adapted for communicating auxiliary fluid and/or electrical signals between tool modules and/or tools in a downhole tool string. It is desirable that such a connector exhibit the function of length adjustment so as to compensate for variations in the separation distance between the modules/tools to be connected. It is further desirable that such a connector exhibits the function of automatically sealing off auxiliary fluid flow therethrough upon disconnection of the connected modules/tools. It is further desirable that such a connector be modular, and be adaptable for use in varying environments and conditions.

DEFINITIONS

Certain terms are defined throughout this description as they are first used, while certain other terms used in this description are defined below:

“Auxiliary fluid” means a downhole fluid (other than drilling mud pumped through a drill string), such as formation fluid that is typically drawn into the downhole tool for testing and/or sampling, or specialty fluids (e.g., workover fluids) for injection into a subsurface formation. The auxiliary fluid typically has utility in a downhole operation, other than merely lubricating a drill bit and/or carrying away bit cuttings to the surface.

“Component(s)” means one or more downhole tools or one or more downhole tool module(s), particularly when such tools or modules are employed within a downhole tool string.

“Electrical” and “electrically” refer to connection(s) and/or line(s) for transmitting electronic signals.

“Electronic signals” mean signals that are capable of transmitting electrical power and/or data (e.g., binary data).

“Module” means a section of a downhole tool, particularly a multi-functional or integrated downhole tool having two or more interconnected modules, for performing a separate or discrete function.

“Modular” means adapted for (inter)connecting modules and/or tools, and possibly constructed with standardized units or dimensions for flexibility and variety in use.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In at least one aspect, the present invention relates to a connector for connecting auxiliary flow lines that extend through and terminate at or near opposing ends of two respective components of a downhole tool string. The connector has a body assembly for fluidly-connecting the auxiliary flow lines of the respective two components, and an assembly for adjusting the length of the body assembly.

The two components may be discrete modules of a unitary tool, or alternatively, are distinct tools. A substantial portion of the body assembly may be disposed axially between the opposing ends of the two components. The body assembly may include connectable first and second tubular members. The first and second tubular members can include respective tubular pin and box portions, and, more particularly, may include adjacent drill collars within a drill string. The auxiliary flow lines of the two components may be substantially axially-oriented. The axially-oriented flow lines can be substantially centrally located therein, or can be non-centrally located (i.e., off center) within the respective two components.

The body assembly may define at least one fluid conduit for fluidly-connecting the auxiliary flow lines of the two components. The first and second tubular members may cooperate to define at least one fluid conduit for fluidly-connecting the auxiliary flow lines of the two components. The fluid conduit can be axially oriented across the first and second tubular members, in which case the fluid conduit can comprise, e.g., a hydraulic stabber oriented axially across the first and second tubular members. Alternatively, the fluid conduit can be radially oriented across the first and second tubular members, in which case the first and second tubular members can, e.g., cooperate to define an annular portion of the fluid conduit across the first and second tubular members. The first and second tubular members may be threadably engaged within or near the length-adjusting assembly, and the length-adjusting assembly facilitates relative rotation between the first and second tubular members to adjust the length of the body assembly. At least one of the first and second tubular members may have a piston movable through a chamber therein for closing the auxiliary flow lines of one or both components upon disconnection of the first and second tubular members.

In another aspect, the present invention provides a connector for connecting auxiliary flow lines as well as electrical lines that extend through and terminate at or near opposing ends of two respective components of a downhole tool string. This connector comprises a body assembly for fluidly-connecting the auxiliary flow lines and electrically-connecting the electrical lines of the respective two components, and an assembly for adjusting the length of the body assembly.

The two components may be discrete modules of a unitary tool, or alternatively, distinct tools. A substantial portion of the body assembly may be disposed axially between the opposing ends of the two components. The body assembly may have connectable first and second tubular members. The first and second tubular members may have respective tubular pin and box portions, and, more particularly, may have adjacent drill collars within a drill string. The auxiliary flow lines of the two components may be substantially axially-oriented. The axially-oriented flow lines can be substantially centrally located therein, or can be non-centrally located (i.e., off center) within the respective two components. The body assembly may define at least one fluid conduit for fluidly-connecting the auxiliary flow lines of the two components. The first and second tubular members may cooperate to define at least one fluid conduit for fluidly-connecting the auxiliary flow lines of the two components. The fluid conduit can be axially oriented across the first and second tubular members, in which case the fluid conduit can comprise a hydraulic stabber oriented axially across the first and second tubular members. Alternatively, the fluid conduit can be radially oriented across the first and second tubular members, in which case the first and second tubular members can cooperate to define an annular portion of the fluid conduit across the first and second tubular members.

The electrical lines of the two components may be substantially axially-oriented. The electrical lines of the two components can be substantially centrally located, non-centrally located (i.e., off center) within the respective two components. The body assembly may define at least one conductive pathway for electrically-connecting the electrical lines of the two components. The first and second tubular members may cooperate to define at least one conductive pathway for electrically-connecting the electrical lines of the two components. The conductive pathway can be radially oriented across the first and second tubular members, as in the case of complementing radial electrical contacts, pin-to-socket connectors, or complementing wet-stab contacts, carried by pin and box portions of the respective first and second tubular members. Alternatively, the conductive pathway can be axially oriented across the first and second tubular members, as in the case of complementing axial electrical contacts carried by the respective first and second tubular members. Such axial electrical contacts can comprise electrical stabbers, inductive couplings, or a combination thereof.

The first and second tubular members can be threadably engaged within or near the length-adjusting assembly, and the length-adjusting assembly facilitates relative rotation between the first and second tubular members to adjust the length of the body assembly. At least one of the first and second tubular members may have a piston movable through a chamber therein for closing the auxiliary flow lines of one or both components upon disconnection of the first and second tubular members.

In another aspect, the present invention provides a method for connecting auxiliary flow lines and electrical lines that extend through and terminate at or near spaced-apart opposing ends of two respective components of a downhole tool string. The method comprises the steps of determining the distance between the opposing ends of the two components, and establishing a fluid connection between the auxiliary flow lines and an electrical connection between the electrical lines of the respective two components in accordance with the determined distance.

The establishing step may involve employing at least one fluid conduit for fluidly-connecting the auxiliary flow lines of the two components, and adjusting the length of the fluid conduit as necessary to accord with the determined distance. The fluid conduit can be substantially axially oriented (e.g., along most of its overall length) between the two components, and can also be at least partially radially oriented (e.g., include a segment that is radially oriented) between the two components. The establishing step may involve employing at least one conductive pathway for electrically-connecting the electrical lines of the two components, and adjusting the length of the conductive pathway as necessary to accord with the determined distance. The conductive pathway can be at least partially radially oriented (e.g., include a segment that is radially oriented) between the two components, and can also be substantially axially oriented (e.g., along most of its overall length) between the two components. The method may further involve closing the auxiliary flow lines of one or both components upon disconnection of the fluid connection between the two components.

In another aspect, the present invention provides a system for communicating fluid and electronic signals along a tool string, comprising a first tool string component having at least one auxiliary flow line and at least one electrical line that extend through and terminate at or near an end of the first component, and a second tool string component having at least one auxiliary flow line and at least one electrical line that extend through and terminate at or near an end of the second component. The end of the second component opposes the end of the first component. A body assembly is employed for fluidly-connecting the auxiliary flow lines and electrically-connecting the electrical lines of the respective two components. An assembly is employed for adjusting the length of the body assembly. The first and second components may be discrete modules of a unitary tool.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

So that the above recited features and advantages of the present invention can be understood in detail, a more particular description of the invention, briefly summarized above, is presented by reference to the embodiments thereof that are illustrated in the appended drawings. It is to be noted, however, that the appended drawings illustrate only typical embodiments of this invention and are therefore not to be considered limiting of its scope, for the invention may admit to other equally effective embodiments.

FIG. 1 is a schematic view, partially in cross-section of a conventional drill string extended from a rig into a wellbore, the drill string having a formation tester assembly including a plurality of modules connected by connector(s) therebetween.

FIG. 2 is a schematic sectional representation of a portion of the drill string of FIG. 1 depicting the formation tester assembly and some of its interconnected modules in greater detail.

FIG. 3 is a schematic, cross-sectional representation of two components of a downhole tool string connected by a generic, modular connector.

FIG. 4 is a schematic, cross-sectional view of two components of a downhole tool string connected by a connector having a central axially-oriented fluid conduit, and a central radially-oriented electrically-conductive pathway.

FIG. 5 is a schematic, cross-sectional view of two components of a downhole tool string connected by a connector having an axially-oriented, annular fluid conduit, and a central radially-oriented electrically-conductive pathway.

FIG. 6 is a schematic, cross-sectional view of two downhole components connected by a connector that is similar to the connector of FIG. 5, with the interface between the connector and the connected components being shown in greater detail.

FIG. 7 is a schematic, cross-sectional view of two components of a downhole tool string connected by a connector having an assembly for adjusting the length of the connector.

FIG. 8 is a schematic, cross-sectional view of two components of a downhole tool string connected by a connector provided with an alternate assembly for adjusting the length of the connector.

FIG. 9 is a schematic, cross-sectional view of two components of a downhole tool string connected by a connector having an inner radially-symmetrical fluid conduit, and a central radially-oriented electrically-conductive pathway.

FIG. 10 is a schematic, cross-sectional view of two components of a downhole tool string connected by a connector having a central axially-oriented fluid conduit, and a non-central axially-oriented electrically-conductive pathway.

FIGS. 11A-B are schematic, cross-sectional views of a portion of a wired drill pipe system employed by the axially-oriented electrically-conductive connector pathway of FIG. 10.

FIG. 12 is a schematic, cross-sectional view of two components of a downhole tool string connected by a connector having an outer radially-symmetrical fluid conduit, and a central radially-oriented electrically-conductive pathway.

FIG. 13 is a schematic, cross-sectional view of two components of a downhole tool string connected by a connector having a non-central axially-oriented fluid conduit, and an axially-oriented electrically-conductive pathway.

FIGS. 14A-B are schematic, cross-sectional view of a connector having valves for automatically closing off the flow lines of inter-connected components upon disconnection of first and second tubular members of the connectors body assembly.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The present invention provides a connector and system that allows fluid as well as electrical signals to be transferred between nearby tools or modules while maintaining standard drilling operations. Thus, e.g., by utilizing the present invention, two LWD or wireline tools or modules can be connected for fluid (hydraulic) and electrical communication therebetween. The connector is adaptable for placement anywhere on a downhole tool string where such communication is needed.

FIG. 1 illustrates a conventional drilling rig and drill string in which the present invention can be utilized to advantage. A land-based platform and derrick assembly 110 are positioned over a wellbore W penetrating a subsurface formation F. In the illustrated embodiment, the wellbore W is formed by rotary drilling in a manner that is well known. Those of ordinary skill in the art given the benefit of this disclosure will appreciate, however, that the present invention also finds application in directional drilling applications as well as rotary drilling, and is not limited to land-based rigs.

A drill string 112 is suspended within the wellbore W and includes a drill bit 115 at its lower end. The drill string 112 is rotated by a rotary table 116, energized by means not shown, which engages a kelly 117 at the upper end of the drill string. The drill string 112 is suspended from a hook 118, attached to a traveling block (also not shown), through the kelly 117 and the rotary swivel 119 which permits rotation of the drill string relative to the hook.

Drilling fluid or mud 126 is stored in a pit 127 formed at the well site. A pump 129 delivers drilling fluid (also known as mud) 126 to the interior of the drill string 112 via a port in the swivel 119, inducing the drilling fluid to flow downwardly through the drill string 112 as indicated by directional arrow 109. The drilling fluid 126 exits the drill string 112 via ports in the drill bit 115, and then circulates upwardly through the annulus between the outside of the drill string and the wall of the wellbore, as indicated by direction arrows 132. In this manner, the drilling fluid lubricates the drill bit 115 and carries formation cuttings up to the surface as it is returned to the pit 127 for recirculation.

The drill string 112 further includes a bottom hole assembly, generally referred to as 100, near the drill bit 115 (in other words, within several drill collar lengths from the drill bit). The bottom hole assembly, or BHA, 100 includes capabilities for measuring, processing, and storing information, as well as communicating with the surface. The BHA 100 further includes drill collar-conveyed tools, stabilizers, etc., for performing various other measurement functions, and surface/local communications subassembly 150 for performing telemetry functions.

Drill string 112 is further equipped in the embodiment of FIG. 1 with a drill collar 130 that houses a formation testing tool having various connected modules 130 a, 130 b, and 130 c for performing various respective functions such as providing electrical or hydraulic power, flow control, fluid sampling, fluid analysis, and fluid sample storage. Module 130 b is a probe module having a probe 232 for engaging the wall of the wellbore W and extracting representative samples of fluid from the formation F, as is generally known to those having ordinary skill in the art. Another of the modules (e.g., module 130 c) is equipped with PVT-quality chambers (also known as tanks or cylinders) for storage of representative or “clean” fluid samples communicated through the probe module 130 b.

FIG. 2 shows the formation tester assembly 130 of FIG. 1 in greater detail, particularly the probe module 130 b and sample storage module 130 c. The probe module 130 b is equipped with a probe assembly 232 for engaging the wall of the wellbore W and drawing fluid from the formation F into the central flow line 236 via the probe line 234. Valves 238, 240, and 242 (among others) are manipulated to fluidly-connect the probe 232 to a flow control module (not shown) for drawing the formation fluid into the flow line 236 and pumping the sampled fluid to appropriate modules within the formation tester 130 for analysis, discharge to the wellbore annulus, or storage, etc. Probe module 130 c is equipped with one or more sample storage chambers 244 for receiving and storing PVT-quality fluid samples for subsequent analysis at the surface.

Connectors 210 are employed for conducting the sampled fluid between the adjacent modules (which in reality may not be abutting, as suggested in FIG. 2, and explained further below) and for conducting electrical signals through an electrical line 250 that also runs through the modules for communicating power, and possibly data, between the various modules (130 a,b,c) of the formation tester 130. One or more pressure gauges 246 may be used in cooperation with one or more sampling probes (only one probe 232 is shown) to facilitate fluid sampling and pressure measurement, as well as pressure gradient determination and other reservoir testing operations. Additionally, the integrity of the connectors 210 may be verified by appropriate use of sensors such as the pressure gauges 246. Accordingly, the inventive connector is adaptable to numerous configurations and applications, and is furthermore not limited to formation testing tools, as will be apparent to those skilled in the art having the benefit of this disclosure.

FIG. 3 depicts a generic modular connector 310 being used for connecting the auxiliary flow lines 362, 382 and electrical lines 364 a/b, 384 a/b that extend through and terminate at or near opposing ends 361, 381 of two respective components 360, 380 of a downhole tool string (represented by connected drill collars 306, 308) disposed in a wellbore W penetrating a subsurface formation F. The components 360, 380 may be distinct downhole tools, and need not be discrete modules of a unitary tool as described above for FIG. 2.

The connector 310 comprises a body assembly 312 for fluidly-connecting the auxiliary flow lines 362, 382 and electrically-connecting the electrical lines 364 a/b, 384 a/b of the respective two components 360, 380. The body assembly may be substantially unitary, or include two or more complementing portions as described in the various embodiments below. The body assembly 312 defines at least one fluid conduit 322 for fluidly-connecting the auxiliary flow lines 362, 382 of the two components. Various other fluid conduit solutions are presented in the embodiments presented below. The body assembly is typically equipped with O-ring seals 324 a/b, 326 a/b for sealing the fluid connection across the ends 361, 381 of the connected components 360, 380. It will be appreciated that O-rings may be similarly used elsewhere for fluid flow integrity, as is known in the art. It will be further appreciated that, although O-rings are identified throughout this disclosure for facilitating seals across various fluid connections, other known sealing mechanisms (e.g., packing rings) may be employed to advantage. Additionally, in at least some embodiments, the connector body assembly will perform the function of pressure bulkhead that, e.g., prevents flooding of one of the interconnected components from propagating to the other interconnected component(s).

The body assembly is further equipped with at least one conductive pathway (not shown in FIG. 3) for electrically-connecting the electrical lines 364 a/b, 384 a/b of the two components 360, 380. Such an electrical pathway is useful for conducting electrical signals through the body assembly, and may be defined in numerous ways as exemplified by the various embodiments described below.

The connector body assembly can be substantially made out of metal, with glass being employed to seal off connecting pins, contacts, etc. Alternatively, the connector body assembly could be made out of an insulating thermoplastic (e.g., PEEK™ thermoplastics), or it could be made of a suitable combination of metal, insulating thermoplastic material, and glass.

A length-adjusting assembly 314, which can incorporate a sleeve member (not shown), is further provided for adjusting the length of the body assembly 312 so as to accommodate differing distances d between the ends 361, 381 of the tool string components 360, 380 to be connected. As described further below, the body assembly 312 can include first and second members that are threadably interconnected (e.g., to each other or via a common sleeve or sub). In such instances, the length adjusting assembly 314 may be operative to permit or assist in the rotation of one or both of the first and second body assembly members so as to adjust the overall length of the body assembly. It will be appreciated that the operation of the length-adjusting assembly in such instances is simplified by the disposal of a substantial portion of the body assembly 312 axially between the opposing ends 361, 381 of the two components 360, 380, although this is not essential.

FIGS. 4-14 depict various versions of a connector usable in connecting components such as proximate modules and/or tools of a downhole tool string. Each connector has a body assembly that generally comprises connectable first and second tubular members. The first and second tubular members can comprise respective tubular pin and box portions, and, in some embodiments, may comprise adjacent drill collars within a drill string as described below.

FIG. 4 is a sectional representation of a connector 410 having utility in the axially-oriented, centrally-located auxiliary flow lines 462, 482 of two components 460, 480 carried within respective drill collars 406, 408. The body assembly 412 of the connector 410 comprises connectable first and second tubular members, 412 a/b. The first tubular member 412 a is carried for movement with upper component 460 (which is moves with the upper drill collar 406), and defines a pin portion of the body assembly 412. The second tubular member 412 b is carried for movement with the lower component 480 (which is moves with the lower drill collar 408), and defines a box portion of the body assembly 412. As the drill collars 406, 408 are made up by relative rotation therebetween, the box and pin portions of the body assembly 412 are also rotated and are driven into connective engagement so as to define an axially-oriented fluid conduit 422 for fluidly-connecting the auxiliary flow lines 462, 482 of the two components 460, 480. O-rings 415 a/b are typically carried about a sleeve portion 413 of the first tubular member 412 a, and O-rings 419 a/b are typically carried about the sleeve portion 417 of the second tubular member 412 b for sealing the fluid connection across the ends 461, 481 of the connected components 460, 480. It will be appreciated that O-rings or other sealing means may be similarly used elsewhere for fluid flow integrity, as is known in the art.

The first and second tubular members 412 a, 412 b also cooperate to define at least one conductive pathway 474 for electrically-connecting the electrical lines 464 a/b, 484 a/b of the two components 460, 480. The electrical lines are attached to the conductive pathway 474 of the body assembly 412 by way of pins 485, but may also be either soldered or crimped in place, among other known means of attachment. The conductive pathway 474 is radially oriented (i.e., it includes a segment that is radially oriented) across the first and second tubular members 412 a, 412 b by way of complementing radial (annular) electrical contacts 490 a (inner), 490 b (outer) carried by the pin and box portions of the respective first and second tubular members.

While an assembly for adjusting the length of the body assembly 412 is not shown in FIG. 4, for the sake of simplicity, it should be appreciated by those skilled in the art that such an additional assembly will at least be desirable in a number of applications. Particular examples of such assemblies are discussed below in reference to FIGS. 7-8.

FIG. 5 is a sectional representation of a particular connector embodiment 510 having utility in the axially-oriented, annular auxiliary flow lines 562, 582 of two components 560, 580 carried within respective drill collars 506, 508. The body assembly 512 of the connector 510 comprises connectable first and second tubular members, 512 a/b. The first tubular member 512 a is carried for movement with upper component 560 (which is fixed to and moves with the upper drill collar 506), and defines a pin portion of the body assembly 512. The second tubular member 512 b is carried for movement with the lower component 580 (which is fixed to and moves with the lower drill collar 508), and defines a box portion of the body assembly 512. Accordingly, as the drill collars 506, 508 are made up by relative rotation therebetween, the box and pin portions of the body assembly 512 are also rotated and are driven into connective engagement so as to define an axially-oriented, annular fluid conduit 522 for fluidly-connecting the auxiliary flow lines of the two components 560, 580. O-rings 515 a/b are typically carried about the pin portion of the body assembly 512 for sealing the fluid connection across the first and second tubular members 512 a/b. It will be appreciated that O-rings or other sealing means may be similarly used elsewhere for fluid flow integrity, as is known in the art.

The first and second tubular members 512 a, 512 b also cooperate to define at least one conductive pathway 574 for electrically-connecting the electrical lines 564, 584 of the two components 560, 580. The electrical lines 564, 584 are attached axially to the conductive pathway 574 of the body assembly 512 by way of complementing radial (annular) electrical contacts 583 a (inner), 583 b (outer) and pins 585 in a pin-to-socket design (similar to wet stab), but may also be either soldered or crimped in place, among other known means of attachment. The conductive pathway 574 is radially oriented (i.e., it includes a segment that is radially oriented) across the first and second tubular members 512 a, 512 b by way of complementing radial (annular) electrical contacts 590 a (inner), 590 b (outer) carried by the pin and box portions of the respective first and second tubular members 512 a/b.

While an assembly for adjusting the length of the body assembly 512 is not shown in FIG. 5, for the sake of simplicity, it should be appreciated by those skilled in the art that such an additional assembly will at least be desirable in a number of applications. Particular examples of such assemblies are discussed below in reference to FIGS. 7-8.

FIG. 6 is a sectional representation of an alternate connector 610 having utility in the axially-oriented, annular auxiliary flow lines 662, 682 of two components 660, 680 carried within respective drill collars 606, 608. The body assembly 612 of the connector 610 comprises connectable first and second tubular members, 612 a/b. The first tubular member 612 a is carried for movement with upper component 660 (which is fixed to and moves with the upper drill collar 606), and defines a pin portion of the body assembly 612. The second tubular member 612 b is carried for movement with the lower component 680, which is fixed to and moves with the lower drill collar 608), and defines a box portion of the body assembly 612. Accordingly, as the drill collars 606, 608 are made up by relative rotation therebetween, the box and pin portions of the body assembly 612 are also rotated and are driven into connective engagement so as to define an axially-oriented, annular fluid conduit 622 for fluidly-connecting the auxiliary flow lines 662, 682 of the two components 660, 680. O-rings 615 a/b are typically carried about the pin portion of the body assembly 612 for sealing the fluid connection across the first and second tubular members 612 a/b. It will be appreciated that O-rings or other sealing means may be similarly used elsewhere for fluid flow integrity, as is known in the art.

The first and second tubular members 612 a, 612 b also cooperate to define at least one conductive pathway 674 for electrically-connecting the electrical lines 664, 684 of the two components 660, 680. The electrical lines 664, 684 are attached axially to the conductive pathway 674 of the body assembly 612 by way of pins 685, 687 in pin-to-socket designs, but may also be either soldered or crimped in place, among other known means of attachment. The conductive pathway 674 is radially oriented (i.e., it includes a segment that is radially oriented) across the first and second tubular members 612 a, 612 b by way of upper and lower pairs of complementing radial (annular) electrical contacts 690 a (inner), 690 b (outer) carried by the pin and box portions of the respective first and second tubular members 612 a/b.

While an assembly for adjusting the length of the body assembly 612 is not shown in FIG. 6, for the sake of simplicity, it should be appreciated by those skilled in the art that such an additional assembly will at least be desirable in a number of applications. Particular examples of such assemblies are discussed below in reference to FIGS. 7-8.

FIG. 7 shows a sectional representation of a particular connector embodiment 710 having utility in the axially-oriented auxiliary flow lines (not shown) of two components 760, 780 carried within respective drill collars 706, 708. The body assembly 712 of the connector 710 comprises connectable first and second tubular members, 712 a/b. The first tubular member 712 a is carried for movement with upper component 760 (which moves with the upper drill collar 706), and defines a box portion of the body assembly 712. The second tubular member 712 b is carried for movement with the lower component 780 (which moves with the lower drill collar 708), and defines a pin portion of the body assembly 712. Accordingly, as the drill collars 706, 708 are made up by relative rotation therebetween, the box and pin portions of the body assembly 712 are also rotated and are driven into connective engagement so as to define an axially-oriented, fluid conduit having linear portions 722 a and annular portions 722 b for fluidly-connecting the auxiliary flow lines (not shown) of the two components 760, 780. O-rings 715 a/b are typically carried about the pin portion of the body assembly 712 for sealing the fluid connection across the first and second tubular members 712 a/b. It will be appreciated that O-rings or other sealing means may be similarly used elsewhere for fluid flow integrity, as is known in the art.

The first and second tubular members 712 a, 712 b also cooperate to define at least one conductive pathway 774 for electrically-connecting the electrical lines 764, 784 of the two components 760, 780. The electrical lines 764, 784 extend partially through the fluid conduit 722 a and are attached axially to the conductive pathway 774 of the body assembly 712 by way of a pin-to-socket design 785 a/b (similar to wet stab), but may also be either soldered or crimped in place, among other known means of attachment. The conductive pathway 774 is radially oriented (i.e., it includes a segment that is radially oriented) across the first and second tubular members 712 a, 712 b by way of the complementing electrical socket 785 a (inner) and electrical pin 785 b (outer) carried by the box and pin portions of the respective first and second tubular members 712 a/b.

FIG. 7 further shows, in some detail, an assembly 714 for adjusting the length of the connector. The process of adjusting the length essentially includes the steps of determining the distance between the opposing ends of the two components 760, 780, and shortening or lengthening the fluid connection between the auxiliary flow lines and the electrical connection between the electrical lines of the respective two components in accordance with the determined distance. The length-adjusting assembly 714 includes a sleeve 730 that is removably fixed about the lower component 780 by a plurality of locking screws 732. The lower component 780 has an upper, reduced-diameter portion 780 a that fits within a lower portion (not separately numbered) of the second tubular member 712 b of the connector body assembly 712. The lower component portion 780 a and second tubular member 712 b are equipped with complementing threaded surfaces for threadable engagement as referenced at 734. The second tubular member 712 b includes a key slot 736 in the region of its threaded surface for receiving a key 738 which (in cooperation with the sleeve 730) prevents the second tubular member 712 b from rotating. Thus, when the sleeve 730 and key 738 are removed, the second tubular member 712 b is free to be rotated under an applied torque.

The length adjustment of the connector 710 preferably is carried out before the first and second tubular members 712 a, 712 b, the components 760, 780, and the length-adjusting assembly 714 are disposed within the drill collars 706, 708. Essentially, the lower component 780 is held against rotation while torque is applied to the second tubular member 712 b, resulting in rotation of the second tubular member 712 b relative to the lower component 780. Such relative rotation has the effect of moving the second tubular member 712 b axially along (up or down) the lower component portion 780 a as required for proper engagement between the second tubular member 712 b and the first tubular member 712 a when both members are mounted within their respective drill collars 706, 708 and made up by relative rotation between these drill collars. The length adjustment is therefore carried out by way of manipulating the position of the second tubular member 712 b along the lower component 780. The first tubular member 712 a is typically held in one position along the upper component 760, although the electrical socket 785 a may be spring-biased downwardly to facilitate its engagement with electrical pin 785 b. It will be appreciated that O-rings or other sealing means may be used in various locations (not numbered) for fluid flow integrity.

FIG. 8 shows a sectional representation of an alternate connector 810 having utility in the axially-oriented, annular auxiliary flow lines 862, 882 of two components 860, 880 carried within respective drill collars 806, 808. The body assembly 812 of the connector 810 comprises connectable first, second, and third tubular members, 812 a/b/c. The first and second tubular members 812 a/b are carried for movement with upper component 860 which is fixed to and moves with an upper drill collar 806. The first tubular member 812 a include concentric tubular portions that define an outer box portion 812 a ₁ and an inner pin portion 812 a ₂ of the body assembly 812. The second tubular member 812 b is slidably connected to the third tubular member 812 c (i.e., permitting relative rotation therebetween) using O-rings 815 c, and includes concentric tubular portions that define an outer pin portion 812 b ₁ and an inner box portion 812 b ₂ of the body assembly 812. The third tubular member 812 c is carried for movement with the lower component 880 which is fixed to and moves with a lower drill collar 808. Accordingly, as the upper and lower drill collars 806, 808 are made up by relative rotation therebetween, the box and pin portions of the body assembly 812 (defined by the second and third tubular members 812 b/c, respectively) are also rotated and are driven into connective engagement so as to define an axially-oriented, annular fluid conduit 822 for fluidly-connecting the auxiliary flow lines 862, 882 of the two components 860, 880. O-ring sets 815 a/b are typically carried about the respective pin portions of the body assembly 812 for sealing the fluid connection across the first and second tubular members 812 a/b. It will be appreciated that O-rings or other sealing means may be similarly used elsewhere for fluid flow integrity, as is known in the art.

The first and second tubular members 812 a, 812 b also cooperate to define at least one conductive pathway 874 for electrically-connecting the electrical lines 864, 884 of the two components 860, 880. The electrical lines 864, 884 are attached axially to the conductive pathway 874 of the body assembly 812 by way of respective upper/lower wet stabs 885 a/b, but may also be either soldered or crimped in place, among other known means of attachment. The conductive pathway 874 is partially provided by an overlength of conductive wire(s) 890 (note the coiled region 890 c) within a central conduit 891 defined by the first and second tubular members 812 a, 812 b.

FIG. 8 further shows, in some detail, an alternate assembly 814 for adjusting the length of the connector 810. The process of adjusting the length essentially includes the steps of determining the distance between the opposing ends of the two components 860, 880, and shortening or lengthening the fluid connection between the auxiliary flow lines and the electrical connection between the electrical lines of the respective two components in accordance with the determined distance. The length-adjusting assembly 814 includes a collar or cap 830 that is lockable about the lower component 880 by way of a lock washer 831 and wedge ring 832 that are drivable by rotation of the collar 830 (see threaded region 829) into locking engagement with a lower shoulder of the outer box portion 812 a ₁. A split, externally-threaded ring 827 is carried about a reduced-diameter portion of the outer pin portion 812 b ₁. The outer pin portion 812 b ₁ and ring 827 fit within the outer box portion 812 a ₁ which is equipped with internal threads that complement the threads of the ring 827. Thus, when the wedge ring 832 is backed off from locking engagement with external box portion 812 a ₁, the first tubular member 812 a is free to be rotated under an applied torque.

The length adjustment of the connector 810 preferably is carried out before the first, second, and third tubular members 812 a/b/c, the components 860, 880, and the length-adjusting assembly 814 are disposed within the drill collars 806, 808. The application of torque to the first tubular member 812 a will result in rotation of the first tubular member 812 a relative to the threaded ring 827. Such relative rotation has the effect of moving the second tubular member 812 b axially along (up or down) the first tubular component 812 a as required for proper engagement between the second tubular member 812 b and the third tubular member 812 c when both members are mounted within their respective drill collars 806, 808 and made up by relative rotation between these drill collars. The length adjustment is therefore carried out by way of manipulating the position of the second tubular member 812 b along the first tubular member 812 a. The third tubular member 812 c is typically held in one position along the lower component 880.

The embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 7-8 employ length-adjusting assemblies 714, 814 that facilitate relative rotation generally between first and second tubular members to adjust the length of the body assemblies 712, 812. It will be appreciated by those having ordinary skill in the art, however, that other length-adjusting assemblies may be employed to advantage. Examples include assemblies that facilitate relative sliding, telescoping, or other translatory motion between first and second tubular members as appropriate to adjust the length of the connector body assembly.

FIG. 9 is a sectional representation of an alternate connector 910 having utility in the axially-oriented, annular auxiliary flow lines 962, 982 of two components 960, 980 carried within respective drill collars 906, 908. The body assembly 912 of the connector 910 comprises connectable first and second tubular members, 912 a/b. The first tubular member 912 a is carried for movement with upper component 960 (which is fixed to and moves with the upper drill collar 906), and defines a pin portion of the body assembly 912. The second tubular member 912 b is carried for movement with the lower component 980 (which is fixed to and moves with the lower drill collar 908), and defines a box portion of the body assembly 912. Accordingly, as the drill collars 906, 908 are made up by relative rotation therebetween, the box and pin portions of the body assembly 912 are also rotated and are driven into connective engagement so as to define an axially-oriented, fluid conduit 922 a/b having an annular space 922 c across the first and second tubular members 912 a/b (i.e., at the interface of the connected members) for fluidly-connecting the auxiliary flow lines 962, 982 of the two components 960, 980. O-rings 915 are typically carried about the pin portion of the body assembly 912, and one or more face seals 917 are typically disposed about the end portions of the first and second tubular members 912 a/b that define the annular space 922 c, for sealing the fluid connection across the first and second tubular members 912 a/b. It will be appreciated that O-rings or other sealing means may be similarly used elsewhere for fluid flow integrity, as is known in the art.

The first and second tubular members 912 a, 912 b also cooperate to define at least one conductive pathway 974 for electrically-connecting the electrical lines 964, 984 of the two components 960, 980. The electrical lines 964, 984 are attached axially to the conductive pathway 974 of the body assembly 912 by way of complementing upper radial (annular) electrical contacts 991 a (inner), 991 b (outer), complementing lower radial (annular) electrical contacts 993 a (inner), 993 b (outer), pins 985 and a pin-to-socket design (similar to wet stab), but may also be either soldered or crimped in place, among other known means of attachment. More particularly, the conductive pathway 974 is radially oriented (i.e., it includes a segment that is radially oriented) across the first and second tubular members 912 a, 912 b by way of upper and lower pairs of complementing radial (annular) electrical contacts 990 a (inner), 990 b (outer) carried by the pin and box portions of the respective first and second tubular members 912 a/b.

While an assembly for adjusting the length of the body assembly 912 is not shown in FIG. 9, for the sake of simplicity, it should be appreciated by those skilled in the art that such an additional assembly will at least be desirable in a number of applications. Particular examples of such assemblies are discussed above in reference to FIGS. 7-8.

FIG. 10 is a sectional representation of an alternate connector 1010 having utility in the axially-oriented auxiliary flow lines 1062, 1082 of two components 1060, 1080 carried within respective drill collars 1006, 1008. The body assembly 1012 of the connector 1010 comprises a single hydraulic stabber 1013 equipped with O-rings 1015. The hydraulic stabber 1013 is equipped with two or more O-rings 1015 for fluidly engaging both of the components 1060, 1080 (which move with the respective drill collars 1006, 1008). Accordingly, as the drill collars 1006, 1008 are made up by relative rotation therebetween, the components 1060, 1080 are also rotated and are driven into fluid engagement, via the hydraulic stabber 1013 and central bores 1061, 1081 in the respective ends thereof, so as to define an axially-oriented fluid conduit 1022 for fluidly-connecting the auxiliary flow lines 1062, 1082 of the two components 1060, 1080. It will be appreciated that O-rings or other sealing means may be similarly used elsewhere for fluid flow integrity, as is known in the art.

The body assembly 1012 of the connector 1010 further comprises a conductive pathway 1120 for electrically-connecting the electrical lines 1064, 1084 of the drill collars 1006, 1008 associated with the two respective components 1060, 1080.

FIGS. 11A-B are detailed, sectional representations of axially-oriented electrically-conductive pathway 1120 of FIG. 10. The wired drill pipe (WDP) joints 1110 represent a suitable configuration for implementing the electrically-conductive pathway 1120 into drill collars 1006, 1008. The joints 1110 are similar to the type disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 6,641,434 by Boyle et al., assigned to the assignee of the present invention, and utilize communicative couplers—particularly inductive couplers—to transmit signals across the WDP joints. An inductive coupler in the WDP joints, according to Boyle et al., comprises a transformer that has a toroidal core made of a high permeability, low loss material such as Supermalloy (which is a nickel-iron alloy processed for exceptionally high initial permeability and suitable for low level signal transformer applications). A winding, consisting of multiple turns of insulated wire, coils around the toroidal core to form a toroidal transformer. In one configuration, the toroidal transformer is potted in rubber or other insulating materials, and the assembled transformer is recessed into a groove located in the drill pipe connection.

More particularly, the WDP joint 1110 is shown to have communicative couplers 1121, 1131—particularly inductive coupler elements—at or near the respective end 1141 of box end 1122 and the end 1134 of pin end 1132 thereof. A first cable 1114 extends through a conduit 1113 to connect the communicative couplers, 1121, 1131 in a manner that is described further below.

The WDP joint 1110 is equipped with an elongated tubular body 1111 having an axial bore 1112, a box end 1122, a pin end 1132, and a first cable 1114 running from the box end 1122 to the pin end 1132. A first current-loop inductive coupler element 1121 (e.g., a toroidal transformer) and a similar second current-loop inductive coupler element 1131 are disposed at the box end 1122 and the pin end 1132, respectively. The first current-loop inductive coupler element 1121, the second current-loop inductive coupler element 1131, and the first cable 1114 collectively provide a communicative conduit across the length of each WDP joint. An inductive coupler (or communicative connection) 1120 at the coupled interface between two WDP joints is shown as being constituted by a first inductive coupler element 1121 from WDP joint 1110 and a second current-loop inductive coupler element 1131′ from the next tubular member, which may be another WDP joint. Those skilled in the art will recognize that, in some embodiments of the present invention, the inductive coupler elements may be replaced with other communicative couplers serving a similar communicative function, such as, e.g., direct electrical-contact connections of the sort disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 4,126,848 by Denison.

FIG. 11B depicts the inductive coupler or communicative connection 1120 of FIG. 11A in greater detail. Box end 1122 includes internal threads 1123 and an annular inner contacting shoulder 1124 having a first slot 1125, in which a first toroidal transformer 1126 is disposed. The toroidal transformer 1126 is connected to the cable 1114. Similarly, pin-end 1132′ of an adjacent wired tubular member (e.g., another WDP joint) includes external threads 1133′ and an annular inner contacting pipe end 1134′ having a second slot 1135′, in which a second toroidal transformer 1136′ is disposed. The second toroidal transformer 1136′ is connected to a second cable 1114′ of the adjacent tubular member 9 a. The slots 1125 and 1135′ may be clad with a high-conductivity, low-permeability material (e.g., copper) to enhance the efficiency of the inductive coupling. When the box end 1122 of one WDP joint is assembled with the pin end 1132′ of the adjacent tubular member (e.g., another WDP joint), a communicative connection is formed. FIG. 11B thus shows a cross section of a portion of the resulting interface, in which a facing pair of inductive coupler elements (i.e., toroidal transformers 1126, 1136′) are locked together to form a communicative connection within an operative communication link. This cross-sectional view also shows that the closed toroidal paths 1140 and 1140′ enclose the toroidal transformers 1126 and 1136′, respectively, and that the conduits 1113 and 1113′ form passages for internal electrical cables 1114 and 1114′ (having use as the conductors 1064, 1084 of FIG. 10) that connect the two inductive coupler elements disposed at the two ends of each WDP joint.

The above-described inductive couplers incorporate an electric coupler made with a dual toroid. The dual-toroidal coupler uses inner shoulders of the pin and box ends as electrical contacts. The inner shoulders are brought into engagement under extreme pressure as the pin and box ends are made up, assuring electrical continuity between the pin and the box ends. Currents are induced in the metal of the connection by means of toroidal transformers placed in slots. At a given frequency (for example 100 kHz), these currents are confined to the surface of the slots by skin depth effects. The pin and the box ends constitute the secondary circuits of the respective transformers, and the two secondary circuits are connected back to back via the mating inner shoulder surfaces.

While FIGS. 11A-B depict certain communicative coupler types, it will be appreciated by one of skill in the art that a variety of couplers may be used for communication of signals across interconnected tubular members. For example, such systems may involve magnetic couplers, such as those described in International Patent Application No. WO 02/06716 to Hall et al. Other systems and/or couplers are also envisioned.

Additionally, while an assembly for adjusting the length of the body assembly 1012 is not shown in FIG. 10 or FIGS. 11A-B, for the sake of simplicity, it should be appreciated by those skilled in the art that such an additional assembly will at least be desirable in a number of applications. Particular examples of such assemblies are discussed above in reference to FIGS. 7-8.

FIG. 12 is a sectional representation of an alternate connector 1210 having utility in the axially-oriented, annular auxiliary flow lines 1262, 1282 of two components 1260, 1280 carried within respective drill collars 1206, 1208. The body assembly 1212 of the connector 1210 comprises connectable first and second subassemblies, 1212 a/b.

The first subassembly 1212 a is carried for movement with the upper component 1260, and includes the drill collar 1206 and an upper mandrel 1213 a fixed (e.g., by threaded engagement) within the drill collar 1206. The upper mandrel 1213 a includes a flowline 1221 a that extends axially through the mandrel (from the upper connected component, 1260) before jutting outwardly to engage the annular region 1223 a _(r) of a flowline 1223 a within the drill collar 1206. As the first body subassembly 1212 a is made up by the engagement of the upper mandrel 1213 a within the upper drill collar 1206 (e.g., by threaded rotation therebetween), the radially-jutting end of the flowline 1221 a will be placed in vertical engagement with the annular region 1223 a _(r) of the flowline 1223 a to establish an upper flowlink.

The second subassembly 1212 b is carried for movement with the lower component 1280, and includes the drill collar 1208 and a lower mandrel 1213 b fixed (e.g., by threaded engagement) within the drill collar 1208. The lower mandrel 1213 b includes a flowline 1221 b that extends axially through the mandrel (from the lower connected component, 1280) before jutting outwardly to engage the annular region 1223 b _(r) of a flowline 1223 b within the drill collar 1208. As the second body subassembly 1212 b is made up by the engagement of the lower mandrel 1213 b within the lower drill collar 1208 (e.g., by threaded rotation therebetween), the radially-jutting end of the flowline 1221 b will be placed in vertical engagement with the annular region 1223 b _(r) of the flowline 1223 b to establish a lower flowlink.

As the drill collars 1206, 1208 are made up by relative rotation therebetween. Drilling mud 109 passes through passage 1207 extending through drill collars 1206 and 1208 as indicated by the arrows. The first and second subassemblies 1212 a/b of the body assembly 1212 are also rotated and are driven into connective engagement so as to define an outer radially-oriented (more particularly, a radially-symmetrical) fluid conduit 1222 for fluidly-connecting the upper and lower flowlinks of the respective first and second boy subassemblies. This process fluidly interconnects the two components 1260, 1280. O-rings 1215 are typically carried about upper and lower mandrels 1213 a/b for sealing the fluid connection across the first and second body subassemblies 1212 a/b. It will be appreciated that O-rings or other sealing means may be similarly used elsewhere for fluid flow integrity, as is known in the art.

The first and second body subassemblies 1212 a, 1212 b also cooperate to define at least one conductive pathway 1274 for electrically-connecting the electrical lines 1264, 1284 of the two components 1260, 1280. The electrical lines 1264, 1284 are attached axially to the conductive pathway 1274 of the body assembly 1212 by way of complementing upper radial (annular) electrical contacts 1291 a (inner), 1291 b (outer), complementing lower radial (annular) electrical contacts 1293 a (inner), 1293 b (outer), a pin-to-socket design 1285 (similar to wet stab), and complementing radial (annular) electrical contacts 1290 a (inner), 1290 b (outer). It will be appreciated that other known means of electrical attachment may be employed. The conductive pathway 1274 is radially oriented (i.e., it includes a segment that is radially oriented) across the first and second body subassemblies 1212 a, 1212 b by way of upper and lower pairs of complementing radial (annular) electrical contacts 1290 a (inner), 1290 b (outer) carried by the respective pin and socket components of the design 1285.

While an assembly for adjusting the length of the body assembly 1212 is not shown in FIG. 12, for the sake of simplicity, it should be appreciated by those skilled in the art that such an additional assembly will at least be desirable in a number of applications. Particular examples of such assemblies are discussed above in reference to FIGS. 7-8.

FIG. 13 is a sectional representation of an alternate connector 1310 having utility in the axially-oriented, annular auxiliary flow lines 1362, 1382 of two components 1360, 1380 carried within respective drill collars 1306, 1308. The body assembly 1312 of the connector 1310 comprises a single hydraulic stabber 1313 equipped with O-rings 1315. The hydraulic stabber 1313 is equipped with two or more O-rings 1315 for fluidly engaging both of the components 1360, 1380 (which are fixed to and move with the respective drill collars 1306, 1308). It will be appreciated that O-rings or other sealing means may be similarly used elsewhere for fluid flow integrity, as is known in the art.

A connecting sub 1307 is disposed between the drill collars 1306, 1308 for interconnecting the drill collars. The sub 1307 employs pin and box end thread sets that are adapted for engaging the respective thread sets of the opposing ends of the drill collars 1306, 1308, and for drawing both of the drill collars towards the sub 1307 into threaded engagement as the sub is rotated. Thus, rotation of the sub 1307 after its threads have initially engaged the threads of the respective drill collars—and the drill collars are held against rotation at the drilling ring floor (e.g., in a conventional manner)—will effect the make-up of the drill collars 1306, 1308 without the drill collars themselves undergoing rotation (only translation). This is necessary since the flowlines 1362, 1382 are not radially symmetric (i.e., their engagement is dependent upon proper radial alignment).

Accordingly, as the drill collars 1306, 1308 are made up by rotation of the connecting sub 1307, the components 1360, 1380 are drawn into fluid engagement, via the hydraulic stabber 1313 and central bores 1361, 1381 in the respective ends thereof, so as to define an axially-oriented fluid conduit 1322 for fluidly-connecting the auxiliary flow lines 1362, 1382 of the two components 1360, 1380.

The body assembly 1312 further comprises multiple complementing pin-to-socket electrical contacts 1390 a (upper pins), 1390 b (lower sockets) that cooperate to define at least one conductive pathway 1374 for electrically-connecting the electrical lines 1364, 1384 of the two components 1360, 1380. The electrical lines 1364, 1384 are attached axially to the conductive pathway 1374 of the body assembly 1312 by way of pins 1385 in a pin-to-socket design, but may also be either soldered or crimped in place, among other known means of attachment. The conductive pathway 1374 is radially oriented (i.e., it includes a segment that is radially oriented) across the upper and lower pairs of complementing pin-to-socket electrical contacts 1390 a (upper pins), 1390 b (lower sockets).

While an assembly for adjusting the length of the body assembly 1312 is not shown in FIG. 13, for the sake of simplicity, it should be appreciated by those skilled in the art that such an additional assembly will at least be desirable in a number of applications. Particular examples of such assemblies are discussed above in reference to FIGS. 7-8.

FIGS. 14A-B are sequential, sectional representations of a particular embodiment of a connector 1410 having means for automatically closing off the flow lines of the connected components upon disconnection of first and second tubular members of the body assembly 1412. The connector embodiment 1410 has utility in the axially-oriented, auxiliary flow lines (not shown) of two components (not shown) carried within respective drill collars 1406, 1408. The body assembly of the connector 1410 comprises connectable first and second tubular members, 1412 a/b. The first tubular member 1412 a is carried for movement with the upper component (not shown) which is fixed to and moves with an upper drill collar 1406, and includes concentric tubular portions that define an outer box portion 1412 a ₁ and an inner box portion 1412 a ₂ of the body assembly.

The second tubular member 1412 b is carried for movement with the lower component (not shown) which moves with the lower drill collar 1408, and includes concentric tubular portions that define an outer pin portion 1412 b ₁ and an inner pin portion 1412 b ₂ of the body assembly 1412. Accordingly, as the upper and lower drill collars 1406, 1408 are made up (made-up engagement shown in FIG. 14B) by relative rotation therebetween, the box and pin portions of the body assembly 1412 are also rotated and are driven into connective engagement so as to define an axially-oriented, annular fluid conduit for fluidly-connecting the auxiliary flow lines (not shown) of the two components (not shown).

The annular fluid conduit includes a first conduit portion 1422 a formed in the first tubular member 1412 a, a second conduit portion 1422 b formed in the second tubular member 1412 b, and an intermediate third conduit portion 1422 c formed upon the engagement of the first and second tubular members 1412 a/b of the body assembly 1412. Each of the first and second tubular members 1412 a/b comprise a valve defined in this embodiment by a respective annular piston 1423 a/b movable through a chamber defined by an annulus 1425 a/b (see FIG. 14A) therein for automatically opening the third conduit portion 1422 c of the auxiliary flow line upon connection of the first and second tubular members 1412 a/b and automatically closing the third conduit portion 1422 c upon disconnection of the first and second tubular members 1412 a/b.

Thus, piston 1423 a, which is moved by its engagement with the outer pin portion 1412 b ₁ from a closing position to an opening position (see sequence from FIG. 14A to FIG. 14B), will automatically move back to the closing position by the application of fluid pressure (or, alternative force-applying means, such as a coil spring) in the first conduit portion 1422 a and fourth conduit portion 1422 d when the first and second tubular members 1412 a/b are disengaged. Similarly, piston 1423 b, which is moved by its engagement with the inner box portion 1412 a ₂ from a closing position to an opening position (see sequence from FIG. 14A to FIG. 14B), will automatically move back to the closing position by the application of fluid pressure (or, alternative force-applying means, such as a coil spring) in the second conduit portion 1422 b and fifth conduit portion 1422 e when the first and second tubular members 1412 a/b are disengaged. O-ring sets (not numbered) are typically carried about the respective pin portions of the body assembly 1412 for sealing the fluid connection across the first and second tubular members 1412 a/b. It will be appreciated that O-rings or other sealing means may be similarly used elsewhere for fluid flow integrity, as is known in the art.

The first and second tubular members 1412 a, 1412 b also cooperate to define at least one conductive pathway 1474 for electrically-connecting the electrical lines 1464, 1484 (see FIG. 14A) of the two components (not numbered). The electrical lines 1464, 1484 are attached axially to the conductive pathway of the body assembly 1412 by way of respective upper (box) and lower (pin) wet stab members 1485 a/b, but may also be either soldered or crimped in place, among other known means of attachment.

While an assembly for adjusting the length of the body assembly 1412 is not shown in FIG. 14, for the sake of simplicity, it should be appreciated by those skilled in the art that such an additional assembly will at least be desirable in a number of applications. Particular examples of such assemblies are discussed above in reference to FIGS. 7-8.

It will be understood from the foregoing description that various modifications and changes may be made in the preferred and alternative embodiments of the present invention without departing from its true spirit.

This description is intended for purposes of illustration only and should not be construed in a limiting sense. The scope of this invention should be determined only by the language of the claims that follow. The term “comprising” within the claims is intended to mean “including at least” such that the recited listing of elements in a claim are an open set or group. Similarly, the terms “containing”, “having,” and “including” are all intended to mean an open set or group of elements. “A,” “an” other singular terms are intended to include the plural forms thereof unless specifically excluded. 

1. A method comprising: determining the distance between opposing ends of two components of a sampling-while-drilling tool string configured for conveyance via drill pipe in a wellbore extending into a subterranean formation, wherein at least one of the two components is selected from the group consisting of a probe module and a sample storage module, wherein the probe module is configured to engage a wall of the wellbore to extract formation fluid from the formation, and wherein the sample storage module is configured to store a sample of formation fluid; and connecting the two components in accordance with the determined distance, thereby establishing a first fluid connection between primary flow passages of the two components configured to pass drilling fluid received from the Earth's surface, a second fluid connection between auxiliary flow lines of the two components configured to pass formation fluid received from the formation, and an electrical connection between electrical lines of the two components.
 2. The method of claim 1 wherein establishing the second fluid connection comprises the steps of: employing at least one fluid conduit for fluidly-connecting the auxiliary flow lines of the two components; and adjusting the length of the fluid conduit as necessary to accord with the determined distance.
 3. The method of claim 1 wherein establishing the electrical connection comprises the steps of: employing at least one conductive pathway for electrically-connecting the electrical lines of the two components; and adjusting the length of the conductive pathway as necessary to accord with the determined distance.
 4. The method of claim 1 further comprising the step of closing the auxiliary flow lines of one or both components upon disconnection of the second fluid connection between the two components.
 5. The method of claim 1 wherein establishing the fluid and electrical connections comprises rotation of a first one of the components relative to a second one of the components.
 6. A method, comprising: adjusting a distance between a first end of a first auxiliary flow line and a second end of a second auxiliary flow line, wherein the first and second auxiliary flow lines extend through first and second components of a sampling-while-drilling tool string, respectively, wherein the sampling-while-drilling tool string is conveyable via drill pipe in a wellbore penetrating a subterranean formation, wherein at least one of the first and second components is selected from the group consisting of a probe module and a sample storage module, wherein the probe module is configured to engage a wall of the wellbore to extract formation fluid from the formation, wherein the sample storage module is configured to store a sample of formation fluid, and wherein the first and second auxiliary flow lines isolate auxiliary fluid from drilling mud transmitted within the downhole tool string; and fluidly connecting the first and second auxiliary flow lines.
 7. The method of claim 6 wherein: fluidly connecting the first and second auxiliary flow lines comprises fluidly connecting a body assembly between the first and second auxiliary flow lines; and adjusting the distance comprises adjusting a length of the body assembly.
 8. The method of claim 7 wherein the body assembly comprises a first fluid conduit and a second fluid conduit, and wherein fluidly connecting the body between the first and second auxiliary flow lines comprises: fluidly connecting the first fluid conduit to the first auxiliary flow line; and fluidly connecting the second fluid conduit to the second auxiliary flow line.
 9. The method of claim 8 wherein longitudinal axes of the first and second fluid conduits are substantially aligned.
 10. The method of claim 8 wherein longitudinal axes of the first and second fluid conduits are substantially not aligned.
 11. The method of claim 7 wherein the body assembly defines a single fluid conduit fluidly connecting the first and second auxiliary flow lines.
 12. The method of claim 6 wherein the downhole tool string comprises: a first drill collar comprising the first downhole tool string component; and a second drill collar comprising the second downhole tool string component; wherein the first and second drill collars are adjacently coupled.
 13. The method of claim 6 wherein first and second electrical lines extend through the first and second downhole tool string components, respectively, and wherein fluidly connecting the first and second auxiliary flow lines comprises electrically connecting the first and second electrical lines.
 14. The method of claim 13 wherein: fluidly connecting the first and second auxiliary flow lines comprises fluidly connecting a body assembly between the first and second auxiliary flow lines and between the first and second electrical lines; and adjusting the distance comprises adjusting a length of the body assembly.
 15. The method of claim 14 wherein the body assembly comprises a first fluid conduit, a second fluid conduit, a first electrical conductor, and a second electrical conductor, and wherein fluidly connecting the body between the first and second auxiliary flow lines and between the first and second electrical lines comprises: fluidly connecting the first fluid conduit to the first auxiliary flow line; fluidly connecting the second fluid conduit to the second auxiliary flow line; electrically connecting the first electrical conductor to the first electrical line; and electrically connecting the second electrical conductor to the second electrical line.
 16. The method of claim 15 wherein longitudinal axes of the first and second electrical conductors are substantially aligned.
 17. The method of claim 15 wherein longitudinal axes of the first and second electrical conductors are substantially not aligned.
 18. The method of claim 14 wherein the body assembly comprises a single conductive pathway electrically connecting the first and second electrical lines.
 19. The method of claim 6 further comprising fluidly disconnecting the first and second auxiliary flow lines, thereby closing at least one of: the first end of the first auxiliary flow line; and the second end of the second auxiliary flow line.
 20. The method of claim 6 wherein fluidly connecting the first and second auxiliary flow lines comprises relative rotation of the first and second downhole tool string components.
 21. The method of claim 6 wherein fluidly connecting the first and second auxiliary flow lines is performed without relative rotation of the first and second downhole tool string components.
 22. A method, comprising: adjusting a distance between a first end of a first auxiliary flow line and a second end of a second auxiliary flow line, wherein the first and second auxiliary flow lines extend through first and second downhole tool string components, respectively, wherein the downhole tool string is positionable in a wellbore penetrating a subterranean formation, and wherein the first and second auxiliary flow lines isolate auxiliary fluid from drilling mud transmitted within the downhole tool string; and fluidly connecting the first and second auxiliary flow lines; wherein first and second electrical lines extend through the first and second downhole tool string components, respectively, and wherein fluidly connecting the first and second auxiliary flow lines comprises electrically connecting the first and second electrical lines; wherein fluidly connecting the first and second auxiliary flow lines comprises fluidly connecting a body assembly between the first and second auxiliary flow lines and between the first and second electrical lines; and wherein adjusting the distance comprises adjusting a length of the body assembly. 